Allopurinol

What is it?

Composition

Allopurinol contains an active substance, also called Allopurinol. This is the main active substance responsible for the therapeutic effect of the drug. Excipients may vary depending on the manufacturer, but usually include the following ingredients:

• Lactose monohydrate - used as a filler;
• Starch - provides a binding function in the tablet;
• Microcrystalline cellulose - gives the tablet the necessary shape and improves its solubility;
• Magnesium stearate - used as a lubricant, preventing the components from sticking together.

This composition makes Allopurinol effective and safe for long-term use in the treatment of diseases associated with high uric acid levels.

How to use?

The use of Allopurinol requires an individual approach, since the dosage depends on the specific disease and the level of uric acid in the blood. Usually the initial dose is 100 mg per day, and, if necessary, it can be gradually increased by the doctor until the desired effect is achieved. The drug should be taken orally with plenty of water, preferably after meals. This helps reduce the likelihood of stomach irritation and improves the absorption of the active substance.

Allopurinol rules:

1. Start with the minimum dose (100 mg per day) and gradually increase it under the supervision of a doctor, to the maximum daily dose, which can reach 800 mg.
2. For the prevention of gout, the drug is taken for a long time, perhaps even for life.
3. Regularly monitor the level of uric acid in the blood to adjust the dosage depending on the test results.

Compliance with these recommendations helps maintain the therapeutic effect of the drug and minimize the risk of side effects.

How does it work?

Allopurinol works by blocking the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which plays a key role in the conversion of hypoxanthine to xanthine and then to uric acid. By inhibiting this enzyme, Allopurinol reduces the synthesis of uric acid, which leads to a decrease in its level in the blood and urine. This is especially important for patients with gout and other conditions associated with hyperuricemia, as it helps prevent the formation of urate crystals that can accumulate in the joints and cause painful inflammation.

In addition, with long-term use, Allopurinol helps dissolve existing urate deposits, which gradually improves the patients condition and reduces the frequency of gout flare-ups. The mechanism of action of this drug allows you to control the level of uric acid, preventing the development of complications associated with its accumulation in the body.

Indications

Allopurinol is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of diseases associated with excessive accumulation of uric acid in the body. The main indications for the use of this drug include:

• Chronic gout - to reduce the frequency of exacerbations and prevent the formation of gouty nodes (tophi).
• Hyperuricemia - a condition in which the level of uric acid in the blood is elevated, both with primary hyperuricemia and secondary, caused by other diseases or taking certain drugs.
• Urate nephrolithiasis - prevention of urate kidney stones in patients with hyperuricemia.
• Concomitant therapy in the treatment of malignant tumors - to prevent hyperuricemia caused by the rapid disintegration of tumor cells (tumor lysis syndrome).

These indications emphasize the importance of monitoring uric acid levels to prevent serious complications and improve the quality of life of patients.

Contraindications

Although Allopurinol is an effective treatment for hyperuricemia and related conditions, its use has a number of contraindications. The drug is not recommended for use in the following cases:

• Hypersensitivity to Allopurinol or any of the excipients of the drug.
• Acute gout - the drug is not used to relieve acute attacks, as it can worsen symptoms.
• Severe renal failure - caution is required when prescribing, it may be necessary to reduce the dose or use alternative treatments.
• Liver failure - also requires dosage adjustment or discontinuation of the drug depending on the degree of liver dysfunction.

Before starting treatment with Allopurinol, it is important to discuss all possible contraindications with your doctor to avoid adverse reactions and complications.

Side effects

Allopurinol, like any medicine, can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Most people tolerate the drug well, but the following side effects are possible:

• Allergic reactions - skin rash, itching, in rare cases Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• From the digestive system - nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or abdominal pain. These symptoms often occur at the beginning of treatment and may decrease with prolonged use.
• Dizziness, drowsiness or loss of coordination - may occur in some patients, especially when taking high doses.
• Increased liver enzymes - rare, but requires monitoring of liver function during long-term treatment.

If any unusual symptoms or deterioration in health occur while taking Allopurinol, it is important to immediately consult a doctor to adjust the treatment.